Save A whimsical and indulgent hot cocoa board featuring a variety of toppings, treats, and homemade hot chocolate, perfect for cozy gatherings or festive winter nights.
This board is always a hit at our winter get-togethers, bringing warmth and smiles to everyone.
Ingredients
- Hot Cocoa: 4 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, pinch of salt
- Toppings: 2 cups mini marshmallows, 1/2 cup whipped cream, 1/3 cup chocolate shavings, 1/4 cup caramel sauce, 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies, 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips, 1/4 cup toffee bits, 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles
- Dippable Treats: 6 large bear-shaped sugar cookies (store-bought or homemade), 12 chocolate-dipped pretzel rods, 1 cup graham crackers, 1 cup fresh strawberries, 1 cup mini donuts or donut holes
- Extras: 6 cinnamon sticks (for stirring), 6 mugs
Instructions
- Prepare the hot cocoa:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth and steaming (do not boil). Remove from heat and keep warm.
- Arrange the board:
- On a large serving board or tray, neatly organize the toppings in small bowls or ramekins.
- Place the dippable treats:
- Around the board, alternating colors and shapes for visual appeal.
- Add bear-shaped cookies:
- As the centerpiece for a playful touch.
- Pour the hot cocoa:
- Into a heatproof pitcher or insulated carafe.
- Set out mugs and cinnamon sticks:
- For stirring.
- Invite guests:
- To fill their mugs with hot cocoa and customize with their favorite toppings and treats.
Save This recipe always brings the family together, making winter nights more special and memorable.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, Whisk, Large serving board or tray, Small bowls or ramekins, Pitcher or carafe, Mugs
Allergen Information
Contains milk, cream, and chocolate (dairy) , wheat (cookies, graham crackers, donuts) , possible tree nuts (toffee bits) , eggs (cookies, donuts) . Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 400 , Total Fat: 18 g , Carbohydrates: 55 g , Protein: 7 g per serving (estimate)
Save This hot cocoa board is the perfect comforting treat for any chilly day or festive occasion.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What ingredients make the hot cocoa creamy?
A combination of whole milk, heavy cream, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and cocoa powder creates a rich and creamy hot cocoa base.
- → How can the board be adapted for dietary restrictions?
Substitute dairy milk and cream with oat or almond milk and use dairy-free chocolate to suit dairy-free preferences.
- → What toppings add texture and flavor?
Toppings like mini marshmallows, chocolate shavings, caramel sauce, peppermint candies, toffee bits, and rainbow sprinkles provide a variety of textures and flavors.
- → What treats are included for dipping?
Dippable treats include bear-shaped sugar cookies, chocolate-dipped pretzel rods, graham crackers, fresh strawberries, and mini donuts.
- → How should the hot cocoa be prepared for serving?
Heat milk, cream, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt together until smooth and steaming, then keep warm for serving.
- → What is a simple way to add warmth to the cocoa flavor?
Adding a pinch of chili powder or cinnamon to the hot cocoa enhances its warmth and spice.